01PsychOffice
1. Lying about doctor's appointments, physical or mental health issues. Studies have shown people with health concerns often fear professional retaliation and stigma -- particularly in the face of mental health conditions, including depression and anxiety. But keeping health concerns a secret doesn't just impact employees: research suggests untreated mental illness could be costing American employers $100 billion a year.
It's an undeniable fact: employees lie to their bosses. So what are your employees most likely lying about, and why? Check it out: Sometimes it's a little white lie to avoid hassles, such as not telling the boss that they've gone to the dentist. Sometimes it's to avoid possible discrimination, such as not disclosing one's sexual orientation, religious beliefs or political persuasion. But sometimes it's to hide nefarious activities, like having sex with a coworker in the hall closet, using illicit drugs on the job or stealing from the employer. SimplyHired polled 1,000 employed Americans and found a number of common lies they've told at work, or things they've kept hidden from their bosses. However, being more forthright can not only engender more trust and lead to more productive workplace relationships, it can also be good for one's own health, according to the report. "Considering how many hours each week you spend at the office -- or even just thinking about work, it's no surprise research continues to link job satisfaction with our physical and mental health," the authors write. "If you have a tenuous relationship with your boss, it might not just be bad for office morale or productivity – it can lead to an increased risk of heart disease."
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Katie Kuehner-Hebert

Katie Kuehner-Hebert is a freelance writer based in Running Springs, Calif. She has more than three decades of journalism experience, with particular expertise in employee benefits and other human resource topics.